Corinthians "Agrees" Adidas Kit Deal From 2026 - Nike to Be Replaced

Massive news is emerging from Brazil as Corinthians have reportedly reached an agreement with Adidas to become their new kit supplier from 2026. The German sportswear giant is poised to replace Nike, Timão's long-standing partner, in a deal potentially worth billions of Brazilian reais (more than 150 million USD) and involving immediate multi-million-dollar bonuses. Thanks to Brazilian kit experts Manto do Futebol for covering the story in depth.

Corinthians Board Still Needs to Approve Deal, Nike Could Go to Court

According to journalist Pedro Ramiro, the club and Adidas have already shaken hands on terms. The monumental deal now hinges on approval from the Corinthians' Advisory Board (CORI). There's some debate on the timing of this crucial CORI meeting: Ramiro suggests it will occur after the May 26th impeachment vote concerning current club president Augusto Melo, while other sources, like journalist Marco Bello, indicate it could happen as early as this Monday evening.

This potential Adidas agreement is seen as a major trump card for president Augusto Melo, who is currently navigating a turbulent period and facing an impeachment vote. The proposed contract is reportedly worth billions of reais and includes the immediate payment of millions in bonuses. Such an injection of cash would significantly alleviate Corinthians' financial pressures, with the club currently burdened by debts around R$2.5 billion.

The Nike Hurdle: A Contractual Battle Looms

However, a smooth transition is far from guaranteed. If CORI approves the Adidas deal, Corinthians will likely face a legal battle with Nike. The American brand reportedly activated an automatic renewal clause at the end of 2024, a move Corinthians disputes, arguing their current contract is only valid until December 2025.

Adidas' Brazilian Ambitions & Kit Timelines

With a potential 2026 start date, discussions between Corinthians and Adidas regarding the initial kit designs are said to be already underway. Kit development cycles typically span one to two years, meaning the timeline is already tight and the first collection might be a rushed affair.

For Adidas, this partnership represents a golden opportunity to regain a strong foothold in Brazil's largest market, São Paulo, especially after losing São Paulo FC to New Balance in December 2023. Adidas currently outfits Flamengo, Cruzeiro, Atlético Mineiro, and Internacional in Brazil. Flamengo enjoys a top-tier contract, granting them access to exclusive collections and materials not available to other sponsored clubs. Given the reported figures, it's highly anticipated that Corinthians would receive similar top-tier status, mirroring Adidas's strategy in Argentina where they sponsor both Boca Juniors and River Plate at an equivalent hierarchical level. This would see Adidas sponsor the two teams with the largest fanbases in Brazil.

Nike's Shifting Brazilian Landscape<

Losing Corinthians would be a significant blow to Nike, as Timão is currently their sole sponsored club in Brazil, aside from the Brazilian National Team. However, Nike isn't standing still. The North American brand has reportedly already secured deals with Atlético Mineiro and Vasco da Gama for 2026, signaling an expansion of their presence in the Brazilian market despite the potential Corinthians loss.

Corinthians 25-26 Home & Away Kits Released

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Corinthians' Nike kits for 2025, which pay homage to the 25th anniversary of their 2000 FIFA Club World Cup win, have just been released. A third shirt, rumored to bring back the iconic "Total 90" design, is planned for September.

What do you think of Corinthians potentially partnering with Adidas? A good move for Timão? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!